White smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel today, signaling that the 133 Cardinal electors have successfully chosen a new Pope to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
The dramatic moment came after rounds of secret balloting behind closed doors. The smoke, a traditional sign of a successful papal election, drew cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Excitement now builds as the faithful await the new Pontiff’s first appearance on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. There, he will greet the world and deliver the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing.
